Guests at Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa have always enjoyed seeing Pu’u Keka’a, or Black Rock, formed by an old lava flow. But now, they can also see black lava salt displayed on their oceanview tables at ROCKsalt, symbolizing a sense of place, history and connection.

“It crosses all cultures,” explains Sarah Brown, Director of Restaurants & Bars at Sheraton Maui. “Everybody uses salt in their cooking; it was used for trading, it was considered a form of currency at one time, and it’s relatable.”

Relatability is the goal at this globally-inspired concept, which features small plates, large plates, sweet plates and sides, all meant for sharing. Spearheaded by Executive Chef Lyndon Honda, ROCKsalt opened June 1, 2018 in the former Black Rock Kitchen. Guests can gather, connect and talk story in a comfortable setting while enjoying a memorable meal.

“We took inspiration from the vibrant Hawaiian sea salts that are signature to the islands, like black lava salt and red alaea salt. It’s an ingredient that represents a harmonious blend between land and sea,” explains Executive Chef Honda.

Honda and his team recently upgraded the menu with around 20 new options; see some of those in our video above. The dishes showcase exotic spices, ingredients and flavor profiles, united with fresh local products from Hawai‘i farms and fishermen.

“The entire catch-of-the-day plate is completely local,” says Sheraton Maui Sous Chef Zac Coltes. “One of our butchers here actually works for the fish company that we buy from, so he catches the fish, we buy it, he butchers it, he takes the scraps, uses it as bait; he’s got a full-circle thing going on!”

A fresh cocktail program, extensive wine list and craft beer selections complement the menu. Developed by Brown, 12 signature cocktails incorporate Hawai‘i-produced spirits, house-made infusions, innovative syrups and more. She put careful thought into which cocktails would mesh best with certain types of cuisine.

“Citrus flavors are going to cut through the acidity; they’re going to be really good with a fattier food,” says Brown. “I personally prefer it with a spicier food because I like to have that space, and then clear it out and bring on the salt.”

ROCKsalt is open daily for breakfast from 6:30 to 11 a.m., and for dinner between 5:30 and 9 p.m. The restaurant offers a 25% kama‘āina discount off both drinks and food.

“Our culinary team has been having a lot of fun collaborating on ROCKsalt’s menu. We hope that locals and visitors bring their friends and family to the restaurant for a lively atmosphere where they get the opportunity to try playful, innovative dishes with a global flair,” adds Honda.

Reservations can be made by calling 808-921-4600 or through Yelp Reservations. For more information, visit ROCKsalt’s website and Instagram at @rocksaltmaui.